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Friday, July 19, 2019 CYCLING Dhul-Qa’da 16, 1440 AH Britain’s Yates wins GULF TIMES prestige Pyrenees Tour de France stage SPORT Page 3

GOLF/BRITISH OPEN Holmes sets pace as McIlroy cards nightmare 79 at Open Defending champion Francesco Molinari of Italy struggled to a three-over 74 and former winner Phil Mickelson shot 76

Reuters Portrush, Northern Ireland Woods labours to seven-over start Portrush: Tiger Woods made a he USA’s J.B. Holmes horrible start to his bid for a 16th shot a fi ve-under-par major title at the British Open 66 for the clubhouse yesterday, shooting a seven-over lead, while Rory McIl- par round of 78. roy’sT British Open hopes were in Struggling off the tee, the tatters after a fi rst-round eight- 43-year-old American, followed over-par 79 at Royal Portrush by swathes of spectators, start- yesterday. ed with four straight pars before All eyes were on McIlroy as the his game fell apart dramatically Open returned to Northern Ire- at Portrush. land for the fi rst time in 68 years, Woods dropped six shots in but his hopes all but disappeared his next six holes with bogeys with a sickening quadruple bogey and at five, seven, nine and 10 at the fi rst hole. compounded by a double bogey His troubles followed those The four-times major cham- at the par-three sixth. of the other crowd favourite, pion ended his day not only look- There was one moment for the Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy, ing up at a leaderboard headed gallery to cheer as Woods nailed who quadruple-bogeyed the by American J.B. Holmes, but a long putt for his only birdie of first hole en route to an eight- knowing he will need a stellar the day on 15, but that followed over 79. second round merely to make the another bogey on 14 and he Woods found himself 12 shots halfway cut. dropped another shot at the behind clubhouse leader J.B. Ireland’s Shane Lowry was the last to leave his chances of even Holmes, who birdied the 18th for clubhouse leader for a couple making the cut in danger. a five-under par round of 66. of hours after a four-under-par 67 on a day of wind and squally showers, mixed with dazzling J. B. Holmes of the US and two-putted. He picked his ren Clarke striking the first tee sunshine. watches his shot during ball out of the hole, to sympa- shot on an historic morning on “I took my chances when I got the first round of the thetic applause, with an ugly the Antrim coast. Clarke made them early on,” said Lowry. British Open at Royal eight on his card. three birdies in his first five “At the start of my back nine, I Portrush in Northern The 30-year-old bogeyed the holes before carding level-par missed a few chances. But look, I Ireland yesterday. par-three third and although 71 think four-under is a great score he repaired some of the dam- One of the biggest roars on that course and I’ll take it any age with birdies at seven and greeted Emiliano Grillo’s hole- day.” nine, the gremlins returned. He in-one on the par-three 13th. His score was later overtaken double-bogeyed the par-three The 26-year-old Argentine’s by Holmes. 16th and triple-bogeyed the last ace was the first at the Open A large group two back in- second, fi rst and second at the crete. It’s actually quite easy. I re- Phil Mickelson shot 76. McIlroy McIlroy’s opening tee shot before trudging off. since Louis Oosthuizen in 2016. cluded world number one Brooks Masters, PGA Championship ally don’t have to do much think- once scored 61 around Portrush went out of bounds, breaking a Earlier, Graeme McDow- Despite damp weather for a Koepka, who made an ominously and US Open, was guided around ing. I just go out there and play.” as a teenager but began his chal- spectator’s phone in the proc- ell drew loud cheers from the second successive day, fans ar- good start with a tidy perform- Portrush by caddie Ricky Elliott, Other leading names did not lenge for the Claret Jug he won ess. His follow-up found heavy packed galleries as he got to rived early and in number for ance that was bogey-free until a who hails from the area. enjoy their opening rounds at the in 2014 like a Sunday morning rough and from there he struck three under after 14 holes on his the sold-out tournament, with wayward drive at the 17th. “He just tells me where to hit it last major of the year. amateur. his next shot into an unplayable hometown course but he leaked the expected total attendance Koepka, seeking to com- and I go from there,” Koepka said Defending champion Frances- He was cheered to the first tee lie in a bramble bush. five shots in the last four holes. of 237,750 making it the best at- plete one of the greatest major of Elliott. co Molinari of Italy struggled to a but those cheers quickly turned After taking a penalty drop, The 148th Open began with tended British Open outside of St championship years after going “The game plan’s pretty con- three-over 74 and former winner to groans. McIlroy chipped on to the green McDowell’s compatriot Dar- Andrews in Scotland.

CRICKET SPOTLIGHT Zimbabwe suspended World Cup hero Bayliss to for govt interference

AFP we must keep our sport free from London political interference,” said ICC chairman Shashank Manohar. coach Hyderabad in IPL “What has happened in Zim- AFP team said in a statement. nternational chiefs babwe is a serious breach of the New Delhi Bayliss won two IPL trophies yesterday suspended Zim- ICC constitution and we cannot with the babwe over a failure to keep allow it to continue unchecked. and has also won the Big Bash the sport free from gov- “The ICC wants cricket to ngland’s World Cup- and Champions League in Aus- Iernment interference, putting continue in Zimbabwe in ac- winning coach Trevor tralia with the in in doubt their participation in cordance with the ICC constitu- Bayliss will take charge 2010-11. qualifi ers for the World T20. tion.” of “He is a proven winner and The decision means ICC The move puts Zimbabwe’s inE the we feel that his successful track funding to Zimbabwe Cricket participation in October’s men’s next year, the team announced record will be ideal in taking will be frozen and representative T20 World Cup Qualifi er in yesterday. Sunrisers Hyderabad forward,” teams from the country will not jeopardy. The 56-year-old Australian Hyderabad added. be allowed to participate in any The Croatia Cricket Fed- will take over a team captained Bayliss is understood to have ICC events. eration and the Zambia Cricket by , who led had off ers from Kolkata Knight “The ICC has directed that the Union have both also been sus- the New Zealand team beaten by Riders and Rajasthan Royals. elected Zimbabwe Cricket Board pended for continuing non- Bayliss’s England in the thrilling Bayliss took over as England be reinstated to offi ce within compliance with ICC member- World Cup fi nal last Sunday. coach in 2015. They won the three months, and progress ship criteria while the Moroccan Bayliss, who will stand down Ashes 3-2 that year, reached the in this respect will be consid- Royal Cricket Federation has from his England job after the World T20 fi nal in 2016 and be- ered again at the October board been expelled over continuing Ashes series against Australia in came the top-ranked one-day meeting,” the ICC said in a state- non-compliance. August, will succeed compatriot international side. ment. At the same meeting, the ICC in the cash-rich Before that he coached Sri “The ICC board heard from also approved the introduction Twenty20 league. Lanka to the World Cup fi nal in both the Sports and Recreation of concussion replacements, ef- “After very careful consid- 2011. The Sunrisers last won the Committee representatives of fective from the fi rst Ashes Test, eration, the Sunrisers franchise IPL in 2016 under Moody. the Zimbabwe government and and a new way of fi ning players has decided to take a new direc- As well as Williamson, the Zimbabwe Cricket before mak- for slow over-rates, with cap- tion with the head coaching role team also boast the talents of ing their decision.” tains no longer at the mercy of and will be parting ways with England World Cup star Jonny “We do not take the decision suspensions and fi nes instead the services of Tom Moody,” the File photo of Trevor Bayliss (rear) with England . Bairstow. to suspend a member lightly but being spread across a team. Gulf Times 2 Friday, July 19, 2019 SPORT

GOLF CRICKET Stokes plays down redemption talk I want to punch aft er W Cup heroics

AFP “It was coming back from all London of that, it was tough. Getting back into cricket obviously mas- sively helped straight after that. myself: McIlroy en Stokes admitted “It was a stressful time for me, memories of the off -fi eld my wife, my family back home. I The 30-year-old four-time major winner was tipped as one of the favourites for the Open incident that threatened had amazing people around me, Bhis career triggered his my teammates, friends, family. Reuters tears after England’s historic They have to take a lot of credit Portrush, Northern Ireland World Cup triumph. for helping me to get through Stokes was found not guilty that.” of aff ray following a street brawl Stokes wept tears of joy on the ory McIlroy said he felt during a night out in Bristol in Lord’s pitch immediately after like punching himself 2017. England won the World Cup and after suff ering a night- The all-rounder was banned he revealed thoughts of his past mare round at the Brit- and fi ned by the England and had come fl ooding back. ishR Open yesterday shooting an Wales Cricket Board after ac- “I got emotional there, at the eight over-par round of 79 at the cepting a charge of bringing the end, and that was probably a Royal Portrush course. game into disrepute. culmination of lots of things, The Northern Irishman start- Stokes was also stripped of the happiness that we won it and ed with a quadruple bogey eight Test vice-captaincy and missed subconsciously thinking and re- on the par-four fi rst after his the Ashes tour, but he worked his membering back to what I went opening drive from the tee fl ew way back from that chastening through,” he said. out of bounds to the left. incident to enjoy a key role in Eng- Despite the team’s euphoric But after grinding his way land’s fi rst ever World Cup title. celebrations following Eng- back to three-over, he imploded After some impressive dis- land’s World Cup victory, on the fi nal three holes — with plays on the road to the fi nal, Stokes insisted the team must some casual putting as he dou- Stokes cemented his place as an start preparing for the Ashes ble-bogeyed the par-three 16th English cricket icon by scoring Test series against old rivals and then got in trouble in the 84 not out and then starring in Australia in August. rough to make a seven on the the Super Over that sealed Sun- “We’ve achieved half of what par-four fi nal hole. day’s thrilling fi nal win over New we wanted to do, which is win- The 30-year-old four-time Zealand at Lord’s. ning the World Cup,” Stokes said. major winner was tipped as one “I won’t look back and say I “Everyone who is involved in of the favourites for the fi rst redeemed myself or anything like the Test team as well as the one- Open in Northern Ireland since that — I’m an athlete and a crick- day team has sort of had to get 1951 but now faces a battle to eter and it’s what we are paid to their heads around the fact that make the cut for the weekend. do, to win trophies,” Stokes told we have an Ashes series com- “I would like to punch my- ITV’s Good Morning Britain on ing up and we still have a serious self. I made a couple of stupid Wednesday. amount of work to do.” mistakes. I was pretty nervous on the fi rst tee and hit a bad shot. I showed some resilience in the middle of the round and was trying to fi ght back into the championship but then I fi n- Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy reacts ished off poorly as well,” he said. during the first round of the British Open “But seven over par combined yesterday. on the fi rst and last holes makes it very hard for you,” he said. McIlroy, who shot to promi- nence with a course record 61 at Portrush when he was a 16-year- old, rejected the idea that he had been impacted by the sense of occasion as the Open returned after a 68-year absence. Duval hits worst British Open round for 22 years “At the end of the day I play golf to fulfi l my ambitions not anyone else’s but I wish I could avid Duval par five 7th hole has been have given the crowd something hit the worst adjusted to 14 instead of 13. Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May (C) shakes hands with England’s to cheer about,” he said. round at the His score for the first round (R) outside 10 Downing Street during a reception on July 15. “I let myself down more than DBritish Open for is now 91, 20-over-par,” anyone else and need to pick 22 years yesterday after tournament organisers myself back up.” carding a 14 on the par-five said in a statement. SPOTLIGHT The Northern Irishman said seventh to languish at the A triple-bogey seven at 17 that the most disappointing bottom of pack on 20 over ensured the former world mistake of the day was the way par at Royal Portrush. number one’s score was he missed a tap-in on the 16th, Duval’s Open win in 2001 the highest in a round at Final was crazy taking the shot casually, after he ensures he is invited back the Open since Ian Baker- had missed a six foot putt. as a former champion Finch struck 92 in the “That was inexcusable,” he despite his world ranking opening round at Troon game, says Boult said, describing the error as a plummeting to 2,080 and in 1997. lapse in concentration. spending the majority Duval shot 80 in the first IANS teammate, has, however, re- While his round has almost of his time working for round of last year’s Open Wellington vealed that the all-rounder, who certainly put him out of conten- television as a golf com- at Carnoustie before with- was hugely apologetic the mo- tion for the title, McIlroy said mentator. drawing, but defended his ment the incident happened, he was confi dent that he could The 47-year-old even decision to keep returning ew Zealand pacer had appealed to the umpires to make the cut and end the tour- started with back-to-back for the tournament despite Trent Boult, who is overturn their decision. nament well. birdies before the wheels his lowly ranking. still trying to coming Boult further revealed that he “I defi nitely think if I can put began to fall off with a “It’s not reflective of any- to terms with the gut- was not aware of the fact that the ball in the fairway tomorrow Nwrenching defeat to England in there would be a Super Over un- quadruple bogey eight thing I’ve been doing it’s I can shoot a good enough score at the fifth. Disaster truly just one of those God-awful the World Cup fi nal, believes the til the second to last ball of the to be around for the weekend. struck for Duval at the sev- nightmare scenarios,” he feeling after the loss will not dis- game. “Obviously I’m pretty sure enth as he lost two balls off added on his travails at the appear in the coming days. “When I saw three off two, anyone starting with a 79 in this the tee and then played the seventh. A sombre group of Black Caps that’s when the umpires told golf tournament doesn’t think wrong ball, incurring an “Honestly, I stood here consisting Boult, Tim Southee, me there would be a Super Over. about winning at this point. But extra two-shot penalty. starting this week figuring Ish Sodhi, Colin Munro, Colin Crazy game to be a part of,” he I think I can go out there and His score was originally I am playing really well de Grandhomme and Mitchell said. shoot something in the mid- recorded as a 13 before and (if) some things hap- Santner touched down on home “It’s not going to be some- 60s, be around for the weekend, being amended after his pen I could make top 20. soil yesterday. thing that disappears over the and then try to play good from round had finished. Obviously I’ll be in the last Speaking to reporters at the next couple of days. It’ll be there,” he said. “David Duval’s score on the place.” Auckland International Airport, something that’s hard to swal- Boult said he was still thinking low over the next couple of years. about the last over of the World “Obviously we’re all hurting,” Cup fi nal where the defl ection he added. FOCUS off Ben Stokes’s bat raced to the Earlier, New Zealand Prime boundary and helped send the Minister Jacinda Ardern praised summit clash into a Super Over Kane Williamson’s men for before England claimed the win putting up a brave fi ght on the Neesham’s childhood coach died during Super Over on the total boundaries scored at sport’s biggest stage. Lord’s. While posting an image from IANS had just hit that six and he took his last “I’m living the last over in my the game on her Instagram ac- Wellington breath. mind a lot. Somehow I got hit for count, Ardern also joked that “He has a quirky sense of humour and six along the ground which has her country must have aged a he was a real character and he would never happened before ... I’d love year watching the thrilling Super ormer Auckland Grammar School have loved the fact that he did that,” she it to sink in so we can get over it,” Over. teacher and cricket coach David added. stuff .co.nz quoted Boult as say- “That was undeniably an in- James Gordon breathed his last “Dave Gordon, my high school teacher, ing. credible game. I think as a na- moments after New Zealand all- coach and friend. Your love of this game “It was an amazing stage to tion we all aged a year in that rounderF Jimmy Neesham hit a six during was infectious, especially for those of us be on. It could have been us, super over. Congratulations to the Super Over in the thrilling World Cup lucky enough to play under you. How but unfortunately it wasn’t,” he England. And to the Black Caps, fi nal against England. appropriate you held on until just af- added. I feel nothing but pride. What a On July 14, England defeated New ter such a match. Hope you were proud. James Anderson, Stokes’ Test team,” wrote Arden. Zealand in a thrilling fi nal on boundary Thanks for everything. RIP,” Neesham count to clinch their fi rst ever World Cup tweeted yesterday while paying tribute trophy. The Kiwis missed their chance to his coach. of lifting the World Cup trophy at the Leonie was heartened to see the all- Lord’s balcony due to inferior boundary rounder’s tribute and said her father count after both the 50 overs and the Su- would have been too. “It was lovely, you per Over ended in ties. know, he’s kept in touch with Jimmy and Gordon’s daughter Leonie said the he is friends with Jimmy’s father. He al- moment Neesham hit a six on the second ways had a soft spot for Jimmy Neesham, ball in the Super Over on Monday morn- he was very proud of him. ing (New Zealand time), while chasing New Zealand’s James “He would defi nitely be following his England’s score of 15, her father stopped Neesham plays a shot career.” breathing. for six runs in the final’s Gordon coached Neesham, Lockie “One of the nurses came in for the fi - Super Over, after which Ferguson and numerous other high nal over, the Super Over, and she said his his childhood coach in school students during his stint for more breathing is changing,” Leonie was quot- New Zealand stopped than 25-years as a teacher and cricket ed as saying by stuff .co.nz. breathing. and hockey coach at Auckland Grammar. “You know, I think Jimmy Neesham Gulf Times Friday, July 19, 2019 3 SPORT

CYCLING BADMINTON Sindhu goes past Blichfeldt Yates wins prestige to enter last 8

IANS Jakarta

ce Indian shuttler P V Sindhu advanced Pyrenees Tour stage to the quarter-fi nals of the ongoing $1,250,000 Indonesia Open BWF World ‘I’m really happy with this win, I got the green light to go from the team and timed it well’ Tour Super 1000 tournament after de- featingA Denmark’s Mia Blichfeldt in her second AFP round match yesterday. Bagneres-de-Bigorre, France Fifth-seed Sindhu, who is eyeing her fi rst title of the season, defeated Blichfeldt 21-14, 17-21, 21- 11 in a match that lasted for 62 minutes. ritain’s Simon Yates won The Hyderabadi shuttler was at her absolute stage 12 of the Tour de best, winning the fi rst game 21-14 without any France yesterday, beating hiccup in just 18 minutes. However, the Denmark two other survivors of a player made a strong comeback in the second game massB breakaway in the Pyrenees. and made Sindhu toil hard for her points during the Defending champion Geraint course of the 23-minute game. Blichfeldt ultimate- Thomas and overall leader Julian ly won the game 21-17, thus pushing the match into Alaphilippe fi nished the slog over the third game. two tough climbs together as a top In the fi nal game, Sindhu, however, made sure 10 shake-up failed to materialise. she didn’t give her opponent any chance and won Simon, twin brother of Mitch- 21-11 to progress to the third round of the tourna- elton Scott captain Adam Yates, ment. is the Vuelta a Espana champion. However, there was disappointment in the men’s He also led the Giro d’Italia earlier doubles event as the Indian pair of Satwiksairaj in 2018 before a meltdown under Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty bowed out of the pressure from eventual champion competition after losing in straight games to Indo- Chris Froome. nesia’s Marcus Fernaldi Gideon and Kevin Sanjaya “I’m here to help Adam, he’s do- Sukamuljo. ing well and is ready,” he said of his The Indian pair, which saw off Goh Sze Fei and twin who is seventh in the overall Nur Izzuddin 21-19, 18-21, 21-19 in their opening and a potential Tour winner. match, lost 15-21, 14-21 to the Indonesian top seeds “But I’m really happy with this in the second round contest which lasted less than win, I got the green light to go from 30 minutes. the team and timed it well. “But now it’s back to the day job,” he smiled. Brother Adam is just 31sec adrift of Thomas in the over- all standings. “I’m here to help Adam get the best result.” The brothers come from Bury in Lancashire, where ex-England football internationals Gary and Phil Neville grew up. Simon Yates is over an hour adrift in the overall standings, but punched the air in joy after out- witting his rivals to add this Tour de France stage to victories in the Vuelta and Giro. Yates came over the fi nal climb with Bora’s Gregor Muehlberger and Astana man Pello Bilbao, but India’s Pusarla V Sindhu hits a return against Mia launched a long range sprint for the Blichfeldt of Denmark during their singles round two line to win by a clear bike length. match at the Indonesia Open in Jakarta yesterday. (AFP) Cameras on the distant peloton showed Adam Yates, connected by radio to his team car, smiling. Tokyo governor says Olympics Overall leader Alaphilippe led worth the cost, Paralympics key the peloton south from the pink- bricked city of Toulouse Thursday Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike yesterday defend- morning vowing to hold on to the ed the cost of hosting the 2020 Olympic Games, yellow jersey, but faced little pres- saying the Paralympics in particular would build sure on the day. Mitchelton-Scott rider Simon Yates of Britain celebrates after winning the stage 12 of the Tour de France yesterday. (Reuters) a legacy by creating better accessibility for Japan’s rapidly ageing society. ‘DARLING OF FRANCE’ RESULTS Koike had taken Olympics organisers to task The two major obstacles on the after her election three years ago, saying the road to the rural outpost of Bag- STAGE 39. Thibaut Pinot (FRA/FDJ) s.t., 43. Mikel Landa TRE) 3:59, 20. Mikel Landa (ESP/MOV) 4:15. Games budget was in danger of ballooning and neres-de-Bigorre were Tour clas- 1. Simon Yates (GBR/MIT) 4:57:53sec, 2. Pello Bil- (ESP/MOV) s.t., 44. Nairo Quintana (COL/MOV) ordering a review of costs and facilities. sic: the 13.2km ascent of the Col bao (ESP/AST) s.t., 3. Gregor Muehlberger (AUT/ s.t., 46. Jakob Diemer Fuglsang (DEN/AST) s.t., GREEN SPRINT POINTS JERSEY But she told a news conference on Thursday that de Peyresourde at an average of 7 BOR) s.t., 4. Tiesj Benoot (BEL/LOT) at 1min 28sec, Retired: Rohan Dennis (AUS/BAH), Giacomo Niz- 1. Peter Sagan (SVK/BOR) 277 pts, 2. Sonny spending was under control with a budget ceiling percent followed by a steeper climb 5. Fabio Felline (ITA/TRE) s.t., 6. Matteo Trentin zolo (ITA/DDT), Jasper Philipsen (BEL/UAE) Colbrelli (ITA/BAH) 191, 3. Elia Viviani (ITA/DEC) having been set, and voiced confidence that citi- to Hourquette d’Ancizan. The day (ITA/MIT) s.t., 7. Oliver Naesen (BEL/ALM) s.t., 8. 184, 4. Michael Matthews (AUS/SUN) 167, 5. Caleb zens’ tax money was being put to eff ective use. fi nished with a downhill charge to Rui Costa (POR/UAE) s.t., 9. Simon Clarke (AUS/ OVERALL STANDINGS Ewan (AUS/LOT) 148, 6. Jasper Stuyven (BEL/ “I am particularly emphasising the Paralympic the fi nish line. EF1) s.t., 10. Jasper Stuyven (BEL/TRE) s.t.. 11. Greg 1. Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/DEC) 52 hrs 26:09, 2. TRE) 132, 7. Matteo Trentin (ITA/MIT) 118, 8. Greg Games,” Koike said. “It could serve as a good The small, sleepy fi nish-line Van Avermaet (BEL/CCC) s.t., 12. Dylan Teuns Geraint Thomas (GBR/INE) at 1:12, 3. Egan Bernal Van Avermaet (BEL/CCC) 101, 9. Dylan Groenewe- springboard in bringing in designs that will en- town surrounded by mist-capped (BEL/BAH) s.t., 13. Serge Pauwels (BEL/CCC) s.t., (COL/INE) 1:16, 4. Steven Kruijswijk (NED/JUM) gen (NED/JUM) 96, 10. Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/ sure accessibility as well as what we call barrier- Pyrenean peaks had been fl ooded 14. Mathias Frank (SUI/ALM) s.t., 15. Nicolas Roche 1:27, 5. Emanuel Buchmann (GER/BOR) 1:45, 6. DEC) 75 free access and facilities.” with enthusiasts, who packed the (IRL/SUN) s.t., 16. Maximilian Schachmann (GER/ Enric Mas (ESP/DEC) 1:46, 7. Adam Yates (GBR/ Koike said the legacy of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics fi nal 3km of the route making for a BOR) s.t., 17. Tony Gallopin (FRA/ALM) s.t.,18. MIT) 1:47, 8. Nairo Quintana (COL/MOV) 2:04, 9. POLKA DOT ‘KING OF THE MOUNTAIN’ was urban infrastructure like the Metropolitan raucous fi nale. Michael Andersen (DEN/DDT) 1:33., 19. Imanol Daniel Martin (IRL/UAE) 2:09, 10. Thibaut Pinot POINTS JERSEY Expressway and the Shinkansen bullet train. Thomas, a double Olympic and Erviti (ESP/MOV) 5:13, 20. Alberto Bettiol (ITA/ (FRA/FDJ) 2:33, 11. Patrick Konrad (AUT/BOR) 1. Tim Wellens (BEL/LOT) 54 pts, 2. Thomas De “I’d like the 2020 Games to be something more triple world champion on the track, EF1) 5:13 2:46, 12. Rigoberto Uran (COL/EF1) 3:18, 13. Alejan- Gendt (BEL/LOT) 37, 3. Giulio Ciccone (ITA/TRE) intangible, a new way of thinking for people and traditionally does well in the time- dro Valverde (ESP/MOV) 3:18, 14. Romain Bardet 30, 4. Xandro Meurisse (BEL/WGG) 27, 5. Natnael society as a whole,” Koike said. trial, the next major test today. SELECTED OTHERS : 27. Geraint Thomas (GBR/ (FRA/ALM) 3:20, 15. Jakob Diemer Fuglsang (DEN/ Berhane (ERI/COF) 20, 6. Tiesj Benoot (BEL/LOT) “Accessibility for all is a major challenge for every Another French hope Thibaut INE) 9:35, 28. Egan Bernal (COL/INE) s.t., 31. Julian AST) 3:22, 16. Warren Barguil (FRA/ARK) 3:26, 17. 16, 7. Dylan Teuns (BEL/BAH) 13, 8. Serge Pauwels city,” she said, noting the proportion of Tokyo’s Pinot has promised to attack on Alaphilippe (FRA/DEC) s.t., 33. Richie Porte (AUS/ Roman Kreuziger (CZE/DDT) 3:28, 18. Xandro (BEL/CCC) 13, 9. Benjamin King (USA/DDT) 13, 10. over-65 population would reach 31 percent by Saturday’s next mountain stage, TRE) s.t., 36. Alejandro Valverde (ESP/MOV) s.t., Meurisse (BEL/WGG) 3:42, 19. Richie Porte (AUS/ Simon Yates (GBR/MIT) 10. 2050. but is for now thinking about Fri- The latest budget figures show a cost of 1.35 day’s 27.2km individual time-trial trillion yen ($12.6 billion), with the Tokyo Metro- around Pau. lidor, who fi nished on the Tour Poulidor told AFP. Alaphilippe has who Thomas has described as ‘the in anticipation of the 22-year-old politan Government shouldering 600 billion yen “Everyone was thinking about podium eight times without win- again vowed to defend his overall darling of France’. pulling off something special. ($5.6 billion). the time-trial today,” said Pinot. ning and is beloved by the French, lead at Pau. “I have a lead of 1min Third placed Egan Bernal appears “Time-trials aren’t my thing,” The Tokyo Olympic Games will be held July 24 “You make major gains or losses thought Thomas would do well. 12sec, and I’m really looking for- to be the darling of Colombia as in- said the Ineos co-captain. to Aug 9 next year followed by the Paralympics against the clock.” “Geraint will put time into all wards to pushing myself to a new creasing numbers of reporters from “I see Geraint taking some time August 25 to September 6. The 83-year-old Raymond Pou- his key rivals on the time trial,” limit,” said the 27-year-old soldier, the South American nation arrive off the other guys, but I’ll lose a bit.”

BOXING Mayweather has ‘zero interest’ in Pacquiao rematch AFP Pacquiao’s long-time trainer He’s travelling, spending time Los Angeles Freddie Roach said last week he with his kids, spending time would be keen for the Filipino with his family. icon to set up a rematch with “He’s doing all the things that loyd Mayweather has Mayweather after a frustrating he never got a chance to do be- “zero interest” in com- defeat in the fi rst meeting. cause boxing has consumed his ing out of retirement for However while Mayweather life ever since he was 5 years old.” a rematch with Manny will be at ringside for Pacquiao’s Speaking to reporters last PacquiaoF after their money- world title fi ght against Keith week, Roach said he was still spinning 2015 superfi ght, close Thurman in Las Vegas on Sat- bothered by Pacquiao’s loss to confi dante Leonard Ellerbe said urday, Ellerbe says there is no Mayweather, when the Filipino’s on Wednesday. chance of a rematch. challenge was hampered by a Ellerbe, the chief executive of “Floyd has no interest,” El- shoulder problem. Mayweather Promotions, told the lerbe told boxingscene.”He has “Hopefully we can get May- boxingscene.com website that zero interest. weather to come to the table,” not even the prospect of another He’s been doing this all his life. Roach said. “I would like us to lucrative payday would tempt And after a while, you get burned have one more crack at him.” Mayweather back into the ring. out. He’s given the sport every- “We didn’t fight a great fight Mayweather is believed to thing.” that night. Manny’s shoul- have earned an estimated $300 Ellerbe said Mayweather was der didn’t help at all. He’s had million from the points victory instead happy in his retirement. surgery since then, he’s 100 over Pacquiao, which remains “He’s very content,” Ellerbe percent now. I would like us the most lucrative fi ght in his- said. “He’s living his best life. I to fight Mayweather again be- tory and generated more than just talked to him earlier today. We cause I didn’t like the way we $600 million revenue. went over some business stuff . performed.” Gulf Times 4 Friday, July 19, 2019 SPORT

SWIMMING FOCUS Australia in dark over Jack US swim stars aim to withdrawal from world lay down marker for championships Reuters Melbourne

hayna Jack’s shock withdrawal from the swimming world championships in Gwangju remains a mystery to the Austral- Tokyo 2020 at worlds ian team, coach Michael Bohl has said. SJack, part of the world record setting 4x100m ‘I’ve been faster in-season in my events than I was last year and training’s been going really well’ freestyle relay team, announced she was leaving the team on social media on Monday. AFP “It is with great sadness that I have to with- Los Angeles draw from world championships due to personal reasons. I appreciate everyone’s support and pa- tience. Thank you all,” Jack said on Instagram with aeleb Dressel and a picture of herself with head bowed, wearing a Katie Ledecky will swimsuit next to a pool. spearhead a powerful The 20-year-old’s announcement came without US assault when the any notice from Swimming Australia. swimmingC world champion- The team’s assistant coach Michael Bohl con- ships begin Sunday, with the fi rmed she would not swim at Gwangju but said the Americans looking to make team had no idea why. a big statement before next “We are not exactly sure. She left the team which year’s Tokyo Olympics. we are obviously very disappointed about but she The event in Gwangju is the has left for personal reasons,” Bohl told Australian biggest meeting on the 2019 media. calendar, but for team USA it “We all respect the privacy she has asked for and represents a stepping stone we will fi nd out in time. on the road to Tokyo – and “There has been absolutely no indication (of her one they expect to negotiate reasons). We were just told at a team meeting that in characteristically confi - she has had to go. dent fashion. “We respected that but we are moving ahead “While we understand that positively. Sometimes you lose people along the the worlds is an important way – hopefully we fi nd out in the next two, three, competition, the most im- four weeks.” portant competition for us is Although Jack helped Australia claim the relay the Olympic Games,” said na- world record with the Bronte sisters and Emma tional team managing direc- McKeon at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games tor Lindsay Mintenko. last year, Bohr said her place at Gwangju was never There have been no cut- guaranteed, with Madison Wilson and Brianna throat trials to produce the Throssell providing competition. US squad, which was selected “There is nothing saying Shayna was the person based on performances in the going in,” he said. 2018 national championships “Shayna wasn’t in a position where she was 100 and 2018 Pan Pacifi c Cham- per cent guaranteed a fi nals swim – she had to get pionships. into the heats and prove herself.” That allows top swimmers to keep their training geared toward Tokyo and, as a result, few Americans feature at the top of the 2019 rankings. Those that do include su- perstar Ledecky, who boasts leading times this year in the 400m, 800m and 1,500m freestyle and Lilly King, who is fastest in the 50m and 100m breaststroke as she prepares to renew her rivalry with Russian Yuliya Efi mova. This file photo taken on July 29, 2017 shows US Katie Ledecky competing in the women’s 800m freestyle final during the swimming competition at the 2017 FINA Dressel, who two years ago World Championships in Budapest. (AFP) in Budapest joined Michael Phelps as the only swimmer rivals that by the time they individual titles in the 50m pion Ledecky’s gold medal dapest, and Simone Manuel, fi dent with how I’ll swim at to win seven titles at a single complete their training camp and 100m freestyle and 100m haul from the last worlds in who stormed to the women’s worlds,” added the two-time world championships, tops in Shanghai the Americans butterfl y along with four re- Hungary included the 400m, 100m freestyle title. Olympic champion. the 100m butterfl y rankings will be a force to be reckoned lay titles. 800m and 1,500m free and “I do believe that I’m set up “But also just looking for- at 50.36sec – faster than Sin- with in South Korea. “I think I’m just in kind two relays. well for worlds,” Manuel told ward to swimming well in gapore’s Joseph Schooling of a weird spot right now. I Other returning champi- SwimSwam after clocking 2020 at Olympic trials and clocked to win gold at the Rio ‘WEIRD SPOT’ have to stay focused. I’ve got ons from 2017 – when the US 53.65sec in June. Tokyo. Obviously I want to Olympics. “It’s just really showing to get better. We’ll go home, topped the medals table with “I’ve been faster in-season swim really well at the world Dressel’s performance in where we’re at,” said the make adjustments, so we’ll be 18 golds and 38 in total – in- in my events than I was last championships, but it’s kind Mission Viejo, California, 22-year-old, whose seven ready.” clude Chase Kalisz, who won year and training’s been going of also a stepping stone to see last month fi red a warning to golds in Budapest included Five-time Olympic cham- both men’s medleys in Bu- really well, so I’m pretty con- where I need to be in 2020.” Shayna Jack

SPOTLIGHT Japan look to give ailing Ikee a lift at world swim AFP “Coach (Yoji) Suzuki has said in Gwangju, South Korea meetings it was important to fi ght hard for Rikako too,” said Hirai. “But knowing Rikako’s character she apan’s swimmers have promised will be anxious about Japan’s results. If to lift their game at next week’s we give everything we have, and hope- world championships to lift the fully come away with a few medals, it spirits of ailing teammate Ri- will give her a lift. But fi rst we have to kakoJ Ikee in her battle with leukaemia. get the job done.” The 19-year-old poster girl for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was diagnosed ALARMING DIP with the illness earlier this year and is In the absence of Ikee and Olympic continuing treatment back in Tokyo. champion Kosuke Hagino, who has Asian champion Yui Ohashi, one of suff ered an alarming dip in form since Japan’s biggest medal hopes in South his Rio gold in the men’s 400m in- Korea after taking silver in the 200 me- dividual medley, Japan’s swimmers tres individual medley two years ago, could struggle in Gwangju after fi nish- insisted Thursday that Ikee was on the ing 14th in the medals table at Buda- mind of all the swimmers. pest in 2017 with four silver and three “It’s a huge blow that Rikako can’t bronze. “I don’t want to predict medal be here to fi ght with us but she’s bat- tallies,” said Hirai. tling hard too,” Ohashi told AFP. “I don’t want to add pressure. But “Hopefully she can see us giving it they’re relaxed, they’re enjoying the everything to produce the kind of re- Korean food and they’re and in good sults that will give her courage and the spirits.” added motivation – that I’m sure she While Hungary’s triple Olympic already has – to return to competi- champion Katinka Hosszu has not tion.” lost a major fi nal in the women’s Ikee shot to fame at last year’s Asian 200m medley since 2012, Ohashi has Games where she captured a record six medal chances in both the 200m and gold medals. 400m. But she tweeted in February that she “I’ll need to be at 100 percent,” said had been diagnosed with leukaemia Ohashi, who recently completed a spell after experiencing problems during a of high altitude training in Arizona. training camp in Australia. “I’m trying not to overcomplicate Japan’s swim queen would have been things. I have to be aggressive – if I a favourite to win 2020 Olympic gold in don’t go out strong, I’ll struggle over the 100 metres butterfl y and a serious the second half of races.” medal contender in the 200m freestyle Another potential hope for Japan is in her home city. Ippei Watanabe, who holds the world Japanese coaches in Gwangju have record in the men’s 200m breaststroke. spoken to the athletes about Ikee, “I want to leave everything out revealed head coach Norimasa Hirai there,” he said. “I want to come back the morning after arriving in South with the gold medal, a new world In this file photo taken on August 20, 2018 gold medallist Japan’s Rikako Ikee celebrates during the victory ceremony of the women’s 100m freestyle swimming event Korea. record and a big smile on my face.” during the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta. (AFP) Gulf Times Friday, July 19, 2019 5 SPORT

MLB NFL Falcons sign Jones to 4-year, Devers helps Red Sox $57mn extension

Agencies Los Angeles

he Atlanta Falcons signed linebacker Deion survive Jays’ rally Jones to a four-year extension on Wednes- day, putting him under contract through ‘He’s one of the best players in the league right now and he’s 22’ 2023. TJones’ agent, Drew Rosenhaus, told multiple me- dia outlets the extension is worth $57 million with $34 million guaranteed. According to The MMQB, it includes an $11 million signing bonus, $13.45 mil- lion paid in 2019 and $35.5 million over the fi rst three years. The $34 million in guarantees includes injury, with $25.8 million guaranteed in full. The annual average of $14.25 million makes Jones the second-highest-paid off -ball linebacker in the NFL, behind only the Jets’ C.J. Mosley ($17 million). His guaranteed money also trails only Mosley ($51 million) at the position. Jones, 24, was set to enter the fi nal year of his rookie deal. A second-round pick out of LSU in 2016, he had 244 tackles (14 for loss), six intercep- tions and 21 pass breakups in 31 games (29 starts) through two seasons, earning Pro Bowl honours in 2017. Last season, Jones was limited to six games after sustaining a foot injury in Week 1, going on injured reserve before returning late in the season. He fi n- ished with 53 tackles (one for loss), two picks and six pass breakups. Jones’ rookie contract was worth $4.5 million over four years. He was set to make $1.1 million in 2019.

CARDINALS CUT HARRISON OVER ASSAULT CHARGES The Arizona Cardinals cut off ensive tackle Des- mond Harrison on Wednesday after he was charged with assault following an alleged attack on a wom- an. The Cardinals confi rmed in a statement on the NFL team’s website that the 25-year-old had been released, soon after police in North Carolina con- fi rmed he had been charged with strangulation and assault on a female. No further information about the alleged as- sault was immediately available. Harrison joined the Cardinals in June after he was released by the Cleveland Browns. Despite a promising start to his rookie season last year, where he made eight starts for the Browns, Harrison was later released by the team after reports of indiscipline. The 6ft 6in (1.98m), 292 pound (132kg) Harrison only arrived in the NFL last year after being claimed by the Browns as an undrafted free agent.

Avalanche re-sign Compher Boston Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers hits a two RBI double against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fourth inning at Fenway Park. PICTURE: USA TODAY Sports to 4-year deal

Reuters his third blast in his last two games - made it the Marlins, was working on a perfect game Avalanche re-sign F Compher to 4-year deal Boston RESULTS 4-2. Sanchez (3-14) went fi ve innings, giving before Cesar Puello reached base to open the The Colorado Avalanche signed restricted up four runs on eight hits and one walk while sixth inning on a throwing error by shortstop free agent J.T. Compher to a four-year con- Red Sox 5-4 Blue Jays striking out four. Fernando Tatis Jr Puello was eliminated on tract Wednesday through the 2022-23 season. afael Devers homered among three Padres 3-2 Marlins He lost his 10th straight start and has gone a double play, but pinch hitter Yadiel Rivera The 24-year-old forward ranked fifth on the hits and drove in four runs to lead Dodgers 7-2 Phillies winless in his last 13 decisions and 15 starts drew a two-out walk. Avalanche with 16 goals and set career highs in the Boston Red Sox past the visiting dating back to April 27. The start of the game Paddack got out of the frame with a goals, assists (16) and points (32) in 66 games last Toronto Blue Jays 5-4 on Wednesday Astros 11-2 Angels was delayed 33 minutes by rain. groundout. Paddack retired the two hitters season. He added four goals and two assists in night.R Indians 7-2 Tigers In the opinion of teammate J.D. Martinez, after Castro’s homer before being relieved by 12 postseason games. Financial terms were not Brock Holt also had three hits as Boston has Royals 7-5 White Sox the young Devers is already one of the best Craig Stammen, who gave up a second hit to disclosed, but TSN reported the deal to be worth won two of the fi rst three contests in the four- players in all of baseball. the Marlins on Bryan Holiday’s single to left. $14 million. Compher avoided a salary arbitration Orioles 9-2 Nationals game series. Eduardo Rodriguez (11-4) earned “He’s one of the best players in the league Castro’s homer also ended a run of 17 2/3 hearing scheduled for July 31. Since making his the victory, allowing two runs on three hits D’backs 19-4 Rangers right now and he’s 22,” Martinez told the Bos- straight scoreless innings pitched by Padd- NHL debut with Colorado in 2016-17, the Illinois and three walks with four strikeouts. ton Globe, via NESN. “He doesn’t have to ack. The Padres survived a two-error ninth to native has tallied 60 points (32 goals, 28 assists) Teoscar Hernandez homered twice, and Devers added needed insurance with an RBI worry about one All-Star Game.” end a four-game losing streak at the start of in 156 regular-season games. Lourdes Gurriel Jr also went deep for the Blue single in the eighth, as Workman returned for the season’s second half. Meanwhile Rochester (Mich.) Police believe Jays, who were outhit 14-5. Trailing 4-2, To- the ninth and allowed a two-out RBI single to PADDACK’S NO-HIT BID ENDS IN 8TH AS Back-to-back throwing errors by San Di- former NHL player Greg Johnson’s death earlier ronto had the bases loaded with one out in Gurriel after walking the fi rst two men in the PADRES BEAT MARLINS ego second baseman Greg Garcia and Tatis this month was the result of a suicide, the Detroit the seventh inning against Matt Barnes, who inning. Workman struck out Randal Grichuk Padres rookie right-hander Chris Paddack put the Marlins’ fi rst two hitters of the ninth News reported Wednesday. struck out pinch hitter Danny Jansen and Eric for the fi ve-out save - his fi fth. had a no-hitter through seven innings before on base. Padres closer Kirby Yates struck out The News said it obtained a police report, which Sogard to escape the jam. The Red Sox struck fi rst against Blue Jays giving up a home run in San Diego’s 3-2 win Garrett Cooper and Brian Anderson before indicated a gun and single bullet were found near After the Red Sox left the bases loaded in starter Aaron Sanchez in the second on a Holt over the host Miami Marlins on Wednesday. Castro singled home Miami’s second run. But Johnson. His wife, Kristin, found him in the cou- the bottom of the seventh, Gurriel homered RBI single with two outs. Toronto responded Starlin Castro homered to lead off the eighth Yates sealed his 31st save by striking out Cur- ple’s basement on the morning of July 7. He was with one out in the eighth off Josh Taylor to quickly, with Hernandez slugging his fi rst for Miami’s fi rst hit. tis Granderson. 48. According to the News, Kristin Johnson told get the Blue Jays within a run. Taylor then hit homer on the fi rst pitch of the third. Devers Paddack, 23, allowed the one hit over 7 2/3 The Padres scored all their runs with two police her husband had “numerous concussions” a batter and walked another, turning things answered with a leadoff homer in the bottom innings. He issued one walk and had eight outs in the fourth off Marlins right-hander during his NHL career but had not shown signs over to Brandon Workman, who fanned Jus- of the frame and struck again in the fourth on strikeouts in the win. Paddack (6-4) threw 94 Trevor Richards (3-11). Manuel Margot start- of depression. The police report said no suicide tin Smoak and Freddy Galvis to maintain the a two-out, two-run double for a 4-1 lead. pitches in his 16th major league start. ed the rally with a two-out double to right, note was left. lead. Hernandez’s second homer in the fi fth - Paddack, who was originally drafted by and he scored on Garcia’s single.

NBA Paul trade talks stall, could play for Thunder Reuters million remaining, including a day in New York for a cervical New York $44.2 million player option in disc herniation. The team said 2021-22 - if they also receive the surgery was successful and their own 2021 and 2023 fi rst- that an update on his rehab and he Oklahoma City round picks, which the Thunder progress will be provided around Thunder’s discussions acquired via other trades. the start of training camp. to trade newly acquired The Herald adds that the Heat On Tuesday, SNY reported point guard Chris Paul were more interested in acquir- Bullock was expected to miss at Thave stalled, ESPN’s Adrian Wo- ing Westbrook than Paul, and least a month of the regular sea- jnarowski reported on Wednes- could instead pursue Washing- son with a previously unknown day, increasing the odds that he ton guard Bradley Beal. medical issue, which led to a begins the season with the team. A nine-time All-Star and reworking of Bullock’s original The Thunder have been work- four-time league assists leader, two-year, $21 million free agent ing with Paul’s agent on a suit- Paul averaged 15.6 points, 8.2 as- agreement with the Knicks. Pre- able trade since acquiring him sists, 4.6 rebounds and 2.0 steals vious reports said Bullock had from the Houston Rockets last in 58 games last season in Hou- gained signifi cant weight dur- week in a deal for Russell West- ston. ing the off season and failed his brook and two fi rst-round picks, He played his fi rst two NBA physical with the team. but Wojnarowski reports noth- seasons (2005-07) in Oklahoma Bullock wound up signing for ing is materializing. The report City, when the New Orleans two years and $8.2 million, mul- adds that Oklahoma City be- franchise was temporarily relo- tiple outlets reported Tuesday. lieves trade talks could improve cated after Hurricane Katrina. The 28-year-old averaged 11.3 after December 15 - when play- The NBA active leader in as- points in 63 games (60 starts) ers signed this off season can be sists (9,181) and steals (2,122) last season, split between the included in deals - or after the whose career totals rank seventh Detroit Pistons (44 games) and 2019-20 season. and ninth all-time, respectively, the Los Angeles Lakers (19). He The Miami Heat have been Paul was the NBA Rookie of the has a career average of 6.8 points widely reported as a potential Year in the 2005-06 season. over 272 games (119 starts) in six suitor for Paul, but the sides have NBA seasons. been unable to agree on com- KNICKS’ BULLOCK HAS SUR- Known as a sharpshooter, pensation. GERY, COULD MISS A MONTH Bullock hit 44.5 percent of his The Miami Herald reports the A day after offi cially signing him 3-point attempts in 2017-18 be- Heat are only willing to take on as a free agent, the New York fore dipping to 37.7 percent last Paul’s burdensome contract - Knicks announced forward Reg- season. His career average is 39.2 which has three years and $124 gie Bullock had surgery Wednes- percent. Gulf Times 6 Friday, July 19, 2019 SPORT

SPOTLIGHT Why 2019 is the greatest So much about sports can frustrate us but it keeps us coming back with the sports year ever smorgasbord of drama, joy and surprise

By Greg Cote Miami Herald

ou know it when you are watching it, not just watch- ing but feeling it. Sports has that power. Suddenly, what mightY have been an ordinary, forgetta- ble competition blooms into something epic, something that will leave its mark on the history of that sport, and on your memory. Novak Djokovic outslugging Roger Federer in Sunday’s heavyweight Wim- bledon men’s championship match felt like that as two all-time greats went the distance, through a 12-12 fi fth set, be- fore Djokovic at last prevailed in a tie- breaker to end a fi ve-hour marathon. I had no real rooting interest, no money on the outcome. The fan in me is tamped down by what I do for a liv- ing so I rarely get emotionally invested in a result, but Sunday near the end of that relentless back and forth I said to my wife something I rarely say when watching sports: “I hate that one of them has to lose.” Here’s the thing, though. That Wimbledon men’s fi nal for the ages? It might not have even been the most extraordinary sporting event going on that day. Or in that city. I’m not a crick- Novak Djokovic (right) holds the winner’s trophy after his win over Roger Federer in the Wimbledon final. (AFP) The United States clinched a record fourth women’s football World Cup. et fan (hundreds of millions are), I fi nd the scoring indecipherable (my fault, I have been watching sports as fan Cleveland to continue the Browns’ un- led by the loud and proud Megan Rapi- not the sport’s). But Sunday in London, or journalist since newspapers were likely rise from the dead. Dwyane Wade noe, was a delight to see. (And impor- concurrent with the tennis, host Eng- dropped on lawns by pterodactyls and and Dirk Nowitzki retire from basket- tant beyond sports as the team cham- land defeated New Zealand to win the games were on in black and white, and ball, two classy greats give the sendoff pioned LBGTQ rights, pay equity and Cricket World Cup, the Brits’ fi rst ever. I cannot recall a run like ’19 has brought each deserved. Ever replenishing, the other equality.) It had ended in a fi rst ever champi- us. So much about sports can frustrate NBA welcomes Zion Williamson, its Bam! Jorge Masvidal’s fl ying knee in onship match draw, requiring a ‘Super- us — like, if your football team hasn’t most talked-about, anticipated draftee UFC. The Angels throw a no-hitter on Over’ that is the equivalent of a penal- won a Super Bowl in 45 years, just to use since LeBron James. the night they are honouring Tyler Sk- ty-kick shootout. The United States, a totally random example — but sports I’m not big on the Home Run Derby, aggs, the teammate who had died sud- by the way, was admitted just this year keeps us coming back with the smor- but fans found Pete Alonso’s dinger denly. (And you still doubt the magic of to the International Cricket Council, gasbord of drama, joy and surprise such duel with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. pretty sports?) meaning a US national team will be en- as we have seen this year. riveting last week. (I’ll take the Chris- Then came this weekend, with a tering the fray with world powers like A hint of this year as special surely tian Yelich/Cody Bellinger run at the Wimbledon women’s fi nal Saturday Australia and India and Sunday’s fi nal- came just after New Year’s when Clem- Triple Crown, juiced baseballs or not.) that saw Serena Williams fall short ists. Sports helps shrink the globe. son football steamrolled Alabama — Toronto winning its fi rst NBA cham- (again) in her hunt for a record-tying Now cricket — so passionately held Nick Saban turned hapless always a pionship in its 24th season. St. Louis 24th career major, and saw the riveting across much of the world but off the delightful sight. Tom Brady and Bill winning its fi rst NHL Stanley Cup in run of 15-year-old Delray Beach, Flor- grid in the US — will by degrees become Belichick winning another Super Bowl its 51st season. Then, NBA free agency. ida, sensation Cori “Coco” Gauff , and less and less a foreign sport here, just ring isn’t so delightful (outside of New It has become its own season, and this then Djokovic’s epic triumph Sunday. like football did. England), but you must respect if not was the best we have seen with stars And, across town, a cricket fi nal that Why am I mentioning the exhila- hail the G.O.A.T.s. such as Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, so much of the globe cared about even rating men’s Wimbledon fi nal and an We were only getting started. A Kyrie Irving, Paul George, Chris Paul more than tennis. What have been the unprecedented Cricket World Cup fi n- rough chronology of what has made and Russell Westbrook all changing top fi ve things that have meant the ish? Because Sunday clinched it for me. this year stand apart: Virginia men’s uniforms.(Baseball and football seem most to you about sports so far this We are only just more than halfway basketball wins its fi rst NCAA crown in to stay the same relative to a dynamic year? Delightfully, the choices are through, and already 2019 has been the its 114th season. Tiger Woods wins the NBA reinventing itself every few years.) many. And now we wonder what’s next greatest sports year ever. This is not England cricketers (from left) , , and Ben Masters, ending an 11-year majors title The United States forcefully winning and when in the perpetual mystery that prisoner-of-the-moment stuff . Stokes celebrate after winning the Cricket World Cup in London. (AFP) drought. Odell Beckham Jr. is traded to a record fourth Women’s World Cup, is competition.

RUGBY FOCUS Uncapped Naisarani to debut for All Blacks to blood Reece Australia, but O’Connor misses out against Pumas, Williams out AFP facing a confi dent, physical side,” he said. “Their Reuters Buenos Aires players will have taken a lot of confi dence and self- Johannesburg, belief from the Jaguares season... they will see this game as a massive opportunity to make he All Blacks will hand Fijian-born winger a statement.” ustralia have selected uncapped Sevu Reece his Test debut against Argen- Melbourne Rebels number eight tina in the Rugby Championship this week- TEAMS Isi Naisarani for the Rugby end as part of an experimental match-day New Zealand: Ben Smith; Sevu Reece, Anton Championship opener against Tsquad that features fi ve new faces. Lienert-Brown, Ngani Laumape, Jordie Barrett; SouthA Africa at Ellis Park tomorrow, but Coach Steve Hansen was forced to ring the Beauden Barrett, Aaron Smith; , Sam there is no place in the squad yet for the re- changes for tomorrow’s match in Buenos Aires af- Cane (capt), ; , Brodie turning James O’Connor. ter deciding to rest eight players from the Super Retallick; Angus Ta’avao, Dane Coles, Ofa Tuunga- Fijian-born Naisarani, who moved to Rugby-winning Canterbury Crusaders and losing fasi. Australia fi ve years ago, will pack down veteran Sonny Bill Williams to injury. with captain Michael Hooper and Lukhan Reece’s fast-track into the All Blacks continued Replacements: Liam Coltman, Atu Moli, Nepo Salakaia-Loto at the back of the scrum and after a sensational 15-try Super Rugby season that Laulala, Jackson Hemopo, Luke Jacobson, Brad be given the chance to stake his claim for a followed a domestic violence incident last year Weber, Josh Ioane, Braydon Ennor. place at the World Cup in Japan. which almost derailed his career. Argentina: Emiliano Boff elli; Matias Moroni, Matias Prop James Slipper will play his fi rst test The 22-year-old is the only uncapped player to Orlando, Jeronimo de la Fuente, Ramiro Moyano; since 2016, while scrumhalf Nic White also start the match but Hansen named another four Nicolas Sanchez, Tomas Cubelli; Javier Ortega returns after he last featured against New debutants on the bench — utility back Braydon En- Desio, Marcos Kremer, Pablo Matera (capt); Tomas Zealand four years ago. nor, halfback Josh Ioane, loose forward Luke Jacob- Lavanini, Guido Petti; Juan Figallo, Agustin Creevy, White’s inclusion means 100-cap veteran son and prop Atu Moli. Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro. Will Genia starts on the bench, along with “It’s going to be exciting to watch how the new All prop Harry Johnson-Holmes, who will make Blacks perform along with their more experienced Replacements: Julian Montoya, Mayco Vivas, San- his test debut if used after fl ying in late this teammates,” Hansen said. “The team is a mixture of tiago Medrano, Matias Alemanno, Tomas Lezana, week following injuries in training to Scott experience and raw enthusiasm.” Felipe Ezcurra, Joaquin Diaz Bonilla, Joaquin Sio and Tom Robertson. Williams failed to recover from a hamstring Tuculet Coach Michael Cheika has resisted the strain and Hansen said winger Rieko Ioane missed temptation to include utility back O’Connor out simply because he had already established him- following his return to the squad six years self at the top level ahead of the World Cup. “We al- after having his Australian Rugby con- ready know that he’s a very, very good test player,” tract torn up for various off -fi eld incidents. Hansen said. “We need to fi nd out about Sevu and O’Connor believes his best position is the some of those other selections we’ve made.” number 12 jersey, currently occupied by the out and get into the battle. “I’m feeling a Nyakane, 2-, 1-Tendai In William’s absence, Ngani Laumape partners in-form Samu Kerevi, who will partner Te- lot belief and commitment from the people Mtawarira. Anton Lienert-Brown in the centres. Captain Kier- vita Kuridrani at centre for the fi rst time in in this Wallaby squad. They’ve all invested Replacements: 16-, 17-Lizo an Read is among the Crusaders being rested, with two years. a tonne of eff ort into our preparation and I Gqoboka, 18-, 19-, fl anker Sam Cane handed the skipper’s armband for Bernard Foley will play at fl yhalf in the know the 23 men selected to represent us all 20-Marcell Coetzee, 21-, only the third time in his 61-Test career. injury absence of Christian Lealiifano, who on Saturday will do us proud.” 22-Frans Steyn, 23-Dillyn Leyds. The pack has a makeshift look about it as sev- has returned to Australia with a shoulder Australia have not won in Australia: 15-Tom Banks, 14-Dane Haylett- eral fi rst-choice Crusaders forwards are missing, problem, dashing his hopes of a fi rst cap in since 2011, and have not claimed victory at prompting Hansen to give prop Angus Ta’avao his Petty, 13-Tevita Kuridrani, 12-Samu Kerevi, three years after recovering from a battle Ellis Park in the last 56 years. second Test start. New Zealand have never lost in 11-Reece Hodge, 10-Bernard Foley, 9-Nic with cancer. 28 meetings with Argentina, although the South White, 8-Isi Naisarani, 7-Michael Hooper, “This is an opportunity for our team. We TEAMS Americans managed a 21-21 draw in 1985. 6-Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 5-Rory Arnold, really want to begin building momentum to South Africa: 15-Warrick Gelant, 14-Sbu But the All Blacks, who are chasing a third take us towards our goals in 2019,” Cheika 4-Izack Rodda, 3-Sekope Kepu, 2-Folau straight World Cup in Japan this year, will be wary Nkosi, 13-, 12-Andre Esterhuizen, Fainga’a, 1-James Slipper. said in a Rugby Australia statement. “We 11-, 10-, of a Pumas team dominated by in-form Jaguares know we go into the game as heavy un- Replacements: 16-Jordan Uelese, 17-Harry players who made the Super Rugby fi nal. 9-, 8-, derdogs but most of the players have had a Johnson-Holmes, 18-Taniela Tupou, 19-Rob Hansen said he expected to face an Argentina 7-Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6-Rynhardt Elstadt, touch over three great weeks of training to Simmons, 20-Jack Dempsey, 21-Will Genia, side that was brimming with self-belief and intent 5-, 4-, 3-Trevor prepare, so really they just can’t wait to get 22-Matt To’omua, 23-Kurtley Beale. on claiming a prize scalp. “We know that we’ll be Gulf Times Friday, July 19, 2019 7 FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT PREMIER LEAGUE Bruce vows to give Juventus make ‘everything’ for new club Newcastle

AFP ted it,” he said. “I regretted it and Shanghai it lingered around me for years, when Sir Bobby left. To be given De Ligt world’s most the opportunity again, it was ew Newcastle head simply something I had to take, I coach Steve Bruce had to grasp it.” has vowed to win over With just three weeks of the the doubters after ad- transfer window remaining, Nmitting he has always regret- Newcastle, who fi nished 13th in ted turning down the job the the Premier League last season, expensive defender fi rst time he was off ered it. The are running out of time to plug 58-year-old was installed as the substantial gap in the squad Rafael Benitez’s replacement on left by the departures of Salomon Wednesday as angry fans vented Rondon and Ayoze Perez. Dutchman joined the champions for a fee of 75mn euros from Ajax their displeasure at owner Mike Newcastle were thumped Ashley’s running of the club. 4-0 by Wolves in Nanjing on AFP Bruce, born near Newcastle, Wednesday in their fi rst game Rome never played for the club he sup- in the Asia Trophy. Meanwhile, ported as a boy and revealed the captain Jamaal Lascelles said chance to step into the hot seat that Newcastle must move on utch central defender Matthijs was one he could not refuse a from the Benitez era and warned de Ligt, one of the most coveted second time. Speaking in Shang- the players need to adapt swiftly young players in world foot- hai, where he will take charge of to Bruce. “People are upset but ball, signed yesterday for Ju- Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt his fi rst game against West Ham that’s gone now, you can’t con- ventusD from Ajax for a fee of 75mn euros in the Premier League Asia Tro- trol that, you need to look for- has agreed a five-year contract ($84.2mn) plus add ons. The 19-year-old with the Juventus. (AFP) phy tomorrow, he said: “I’m like ward, we’ve got a great manager agreed a fi ve-year contract with the Ital- every other Geordie, I’ve lived coming in and we need to remain ian champions. the dream. positive.” Juventus said in a statement the fee “If you can’t play for them, Lascelles admitted it had been would be paid over fi ve fi nancial years, then of course if you’re a Geor- a diffi cult summer with the club with “additional costs” of 10.5mn eu- die, what better thing than to making headlines for the wrong ros. The combined fee makes De Ligt the take the number one seat? I’m reasons. As well as losing Be- world’s most expensive defender, sur- delighted to have been given the nitez, who has moved to Chi- passing the 84mn euros Liverpool paid to opportunity and I’ll do my best. nese football with Dalian Yifang, sign his Netherlands teammate Virgil Van I know in some people’s eyes, I’m success-starved Newcastle sup- Dijk from Southampton in 2018. not Rafa and I understand there porters have seen the club lose De Ligt is Juventus’ third most ex- are big shoes to fi ll. But believe key forwards Ayoze Perez and pensive signing after the 105mn euros me, I’ll give it everything I pos- Salomon Rondon. they paid to buy Cristiano Ronaldo from sibly can and hopefully prove the “It is frustrating because it’s Real in 2018 and the 90mn euro doubters wrong.” always ‘Newcastle this, New- transfer of Gonzalo Higuain from Na- Bruce, who met the play- castle that’, it’s never positive,” poli in 2016. De Ligt had also been linked ers yesterday, just hours after said defender Lascelles, 25. “We with Manchester United, Barcelona and his arrival in China, might have are always highlighted for some- Paris Saint-Germain after his impressive managed the Magpies much thing or we’re not doing some- performances for a young Ajax side that earlier in his career having been thing right. As players we try to reached the Champions League semi- approached when Bobby Robson ignore all that and try to work fi nals last season. was sacked in 2004 during his hard and do the right things, that His Ajax teammate, 22-year-old mid- time in charge at Birmingham. is all we can do, we can’t control fi elder Frenkie de Jong, has already joined “Back a few years ago, I regret- anything else.” Barcelona. In a deal hammered out by his powerful Italian-born Dutch agent Mino Raiola, De Ligt will earn a basic annual salary of 7.5mn euros that could reach 12mn euros with bonuses, according to competitions, scoring 13 goals. ventus after the two faced each other for splashed out on 19-year-old forward Joao reports in Italy. “The sporting project He scored the winner in Turin as Ajax their countries in the Nations League fi - Felix from Benfi ca. proved decisive” in De Ligt’s decision to eliminated Juventus in the Champions nal in June won by Portugal. Netherlands After a disappointing 2018-2019 sea- choose Juventus. “For a defender, Italy is League quarter-fi nals. De Ligt has played coach Ronald Koeman says De Ligt “will son, Real Madrid have strengthened with always an ideal place.” 17 times for the Netherlands, forming a become one of the best defenders in the the acquisition of Belgian playmaker Eden The Turin-based club, now coached by formidable central defensive partnership world in a short time”. Hazard from Chelsea for an initial 100mn former Chelsea mentor Maurizio Sarri, with Van Dijk. De Ligt is the latest big-money sum- euros, with another 34mn euros in poten- were keen to bring new blood into an age- He took over the captain’s armband mer transfer following the 120mn euro tial add-ons. Premier League champions ing defence that features 34-year-old at Ajax in March 2018, making him the deal that took France striker Antoine Manchester City bought Spain interna- Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, club’s youngest ever captain. De Ligt Griezmann from Atletico Madrid to Bar- tional Rodri for a club record 70mn euros 32. De Ligt played 117 games for Ajax in all said Ronaldo had urged him to join Ju- celona and the 126mn euros that Atletico (£63mn).

FOCUS TRANSFER Nketiah gives youthful Arsenal Atletico continue defender friendly win over Bayern Munich spree and add Hermoso AFP AFP Madrid Los Angeles tletico Madrid bought a oung striker Edward Nketiah scored second defender in less the winner just two minutes from than 24 hours yester- time as a youthful Arsenal side beat day when they signed Bayern Munich 2-1 in a pre-season SpanishA international centre friendlyY in California on Wednesday night. back Mario Hermoso from Liga The Gunners fi nished off a rapid passing se- rivals Espanyol. The club un- quence in the 88th minute that culminated veiled Hermoso at their Wandsa with teenager Tyreece John-Jules slipping Metropolitano stadium in the the ball to the 20-year-old Nketiah who same press conference where scored via his knee. they introduced England right- Arsenal won their second straight game back Kieran Tripper, bought the on their US tour, but the Bundesliga cham- day before from Tottenham for a pions gave them a stiff er test than the Major reported 22mn euros. Soccer League’s Colorado Rapids who they Both men said they were “very routed 3-0 on Monday. The fi fth-placed excited.” Espanyol said Atletico fi nishers in the English Premier League last had paid close to 25mn euros for year opened the scoring courtesy of a 49th Hermoso with 4mn in “easily minute own goal in a front of a crowd of reached” add ons and a 20 per 26,700 in Carson. cent cut of any future transfer Louis Poznanski failed to deal with a fee. Atletico said the 24-year-old ball on the far side of the box and in trying had signed a fi ve-year deal. to clear ended up kicking into his own net. Hermoso is from Madrid and Robert Lewandowski equalised with a su- came through the youth system perb header in the 71st minute for Bayern, at neighbours Real. He played who completed the German double last 59 games for Espanyol over the season. Former Arsenal midfi elder Serge Arsenal Forward Eddie Nketiah (right) celebrates with teammate Tyreece John-Jules after last two seasons, scoring four Gnabry sent a high ball into the box and scoring the winner against Bayern Munich during the International Champions Cup goals. He has played three times Lewandowski leapt highest to redirect into match in Carson, California on Wednesday night. (AFP) for Spain. “When I had the op- the top corner to make it 1-1. Unai Emery’s portunity to come here, I didn’t side came through their second fi xture in try to force a transfer. Thomas Mueller had David Alaba crossed the ball to the centre even have to think about it, it’s America in good form, despite the saga sur- the best chance for a wasteful Bayern but his of the box where the charging Mueller split an opportunity that allows me to rounding unsettled captain Laurent Kosciel- fi rst-half eff ort was kept out in spectacu- the defence to shoot but Leno kicked out his continue growing as a footballer,” Atletico Madrid’s new signing Mario Hermoso poses with the team’s ny who decided to boycott their US tour to lar style by Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno. right leg to make a stunning save. Hermoso said. jersey during his unveiling in Madrid yesterday. (AFP) Atletico lost veteran centre back Diego Godin to Inter Mi- pier said. “He is for me one of the “It’s a great opportunity to come lan after nine years this sum- best managers in the world, so it is and live in Madrid. Not many Ex-Liverpool striker Sturridge banned for breaching betting rules mer. “Diego has been an emblem privilege to play for him and give British players come abroad, but within the club,” said Hermoso. everything I can for him.” I always wanted to play abroad, London: Former Liverpool striker Daniel were dismissed and Sturridge is free to (Daniel Sturridge) to Sevilla FC. Adding that he welcomed the Trippier will wear number 23, especially in , since I was Sturridge has been fined and suspended resume his career on July 31, just before the “In issuing that instruction, the regula- challenge and was sure he “would the same number David Beckham young. I’m looking forward to for six weeks for breaching betting rules, English season starts. tory commission found that, as a matter of continue that tradition.” had when he played for Atletico’s learning the language straight the Football Association announced. An The FA said it believed the punishment fact, Mr Sturridge had provided his brother Trippier said the lure of work- cross-town rivals Real Madrid. away which is my fi rst priority. independent regulatory commission found should have been stiff er and that it would with inside information for that purpose.” ing with , who The right back, who was one of The quicker I can do that, com- that 29-year-old Sturridge, capped 26 times appeal. The England international left It added: “The FA respectfully disagrees he described as one of the top England’s key players in their run municate with my coach and by England, had instructed his brother to European champions Liverpool when his with the regulatory commission’s findings coaches around, convinced him to the 2018 World Cup semi-fi - team mates, the better.” bet on a possible move to Sevilla during the contract expired at the end of June and is and will be appealing against the charges to switch from Tottenham to nals, added that he had longed to Atletico, who were runners- January 2018 transfer window. without a club. A statement from the FA which were dismissed and the sanction Atletico. “From watching Atletico play abroad and pledged to learn up in La Liga last season, are in a The commission suspended Sturridge said: “The regulatory commission found which was imposed.” over the years you see what he de- Spanish so he could quickly be on period of transition after parting from participating in any domestic football proved charges three and four, which al- Sturridge ended up switching to West mands of his team, his work ethic, the same page as his team mates. with key defenders Diego Godin, for six weeks, with a further four weeks sus- leged that, in that same transfer window, Brom for the second half of the 2017/18 giving everything for the team, “The Premier League is one Juanfran, Filipe Luis and Lucas pended, and fined him £75,000 ($94,000). Mr Sturridge had instructed his brother, campaign after a move to La Liga side and how close the players are with of best leagues in the world, but Hernandez as well as Antoine Nine of the 11 charges against the striker Leon, to bet on a possible move by him Sevilla broke down. the staff and the club. I wanted to when Atletico were interested Griezmann, their top scorer for be a part of the family here,” Trip- I didn’t think twice,” he added. the last fi ve seasons.

Friday, July 19, 2019 GULF TIMES FOOTBALL

SPOTLIGHT Coaching Al Sadd is a huge honour, says Xavi l Sadd’s new head coach Xavi staff will consist of Sergio Oriol, Ivan ryone expects a lot from me and I am Hernandez described the op- Torres, Oscar Hernandez, Jose Manuel, used to it, playing under pressure. I portunity to manage the club David Barts, Antonio Lobo, Sergio Gar- played for many years at Barcelona un- as ‘huge’ and has expressed cia and Antonio Troula. der this kind of pressure; it’s a normal hisA gratitude at being given the job. Xavi, 39, made a record 767 appear- thing for me. This is the life that I am Speaking exclusively to the club ances for Barca in a 17-year stint and used to; having to compete. If I had not website (al-saddclub.com) during the 133 for Spain in his illustrious playing lived this kind of life, I would have been pre-season camp in Spain, Xavi said: “I career before moving to Qatar in 2015 missing something important. I am am very grateful to the president of the ahead of his transition into coaching. very happy, here at Al Sadd; we are the club, the management and the players As for his talks with the players, Xavi best in Qatar and we are here to win. We for their trust in me. It is true that this said: “My fi rst discussion with the may play under pressure but we are the is the fi rst coaching job for me but it is players was very interesting and fruit- best team,” he said. a superb feeling, because I know all the ful. I made it clear to them on the fi rst Asked about Sadd’s upcoming players. Also, the staff who are with me day, that I am very happy to be with matches in the AFC Champions League have a lot of experience on the pitch in them and grateful for the opportunity and the Super Cup, Xavi spoke about many countries, and therefore will be of that I have got. the fact that his fi rst three games as a great help to me.” “I started by explaining to them the coach will be against Al Duhail. He added: “I think it’s an added ad- way I want to play and the ideas that I “Al Duhail are one of the best teams, vantage that I know the players, the will implement on the pitch. I also told not just in Doha, but in the Middle East. club and the country. I will start my ap- them that we are here to create happi- We know them well and my last game plying my ideas. Everyone knows that I ness together, to enjoy and to win.” against them was in the Amir Cup fi nal. love attacking football and to keep pos- He added: “Throughout my sporting In football, there are always opportuni- session of the ball; doing that from the career as a player, I have been used to ties to make amends and we now have start will be a great feeling. Everything winning and now I want to keep win- a big challenge ahead of us, in the AFC is excellent here at the camp, in my ning as a coach. I told them that I am Champions League and in the Super country and in Catalonia specifi cally.” here to help them as individuals and Cup. We will be ready to compete. We The former Spain and Barcelona also as players. Our duty as a group is to don’t know what will happen but we midfi eld maestro played the last match win and enjoy on and off the pitch. It is will compete,” he said. of his glorious career on May 20 when a big honour that I get to be the coach Finally, Xavi had some words to say Al Sadd lost 2-0 to Iranian giants of this great group of players, because I for Al Sadd’s fans. Persepolis in their last group encounter know that they have great respect and “With regards to the Al Sadd fans, I of the AFC Champions League. character and they will do all that I ask want to promise them that we will give The fi rst game for Al Sadd under Xavi of them on the pitch.” our best. I cannot promise results but will be against compatriots Al Duhail Xavi admitted that he is aware of we will compete for all the titles and in the last 16 of the Asian Champions the expectations from the fans and give our best, because we are the best League on August 6. Xavi’s coaching was confi dent he could deliver. “Eve- team in Qatar.” Al Sadd’s new head coach Xavi Hernandez talks to his players during a pre-season training camp in Spain.

PREVIEW FOCUS Ighalo boosts Mahrez and Mane Golden Boot hopes as Nigeria duel in rematch for fi nish third AFP goals each. Algerians Mahrez and Cairo Ounas and ’s Mane have a chance to increase their totals when the two countries face off Cup of Nations glory dion Ighalo boosted his in Friday’s fi nal at the Cairo In- chances of winning the ternational Stadium. Golden Boot at the Af- Ighalo, who was the lead- rica Cup of Nations on ing scorer in the 2019 qualifying The Algeria captain has been in fine form for his country in the tournament so far WednesdayO night after he net- competition with seven goals, ted Nigeria’s winner to ensure left the fi eld just before half-time AFP his side third place in the tour- with a pulled hamstring. Tunisia Cairo nament with a 1-0 victory over had little to off er in attack and it Tunisia. took 57 minutes before they had a The 30-year-old Shanghai goal attempt on target. iyad Mahrez and Sadio Mane will Shenhua forward struck the only Nigeria maintained their per- renew their Premier League ri- goal of the match just 130 sec- fect record in third place play- valry for a second time in , onds after the kick-off before a off s at the Cup of Nations having with of Nations im- small crowd at the Al Salam Sta- won six other matches between mortalityR awaiting the victor of tomor- dium in Cairo. Ighalo pounced the beaten semi-fi nalists. The row’s fi nal between Algeria and Senegal. from close range when Jamilu fi rst of those successes came in Algerian star Mahrez was part of the Collins’ cross led to a mix-up be- 1978 against Tunisia in a match Manchester City team that edged out tween Tunisia goalkeeper Moez abandoned just before half-time Mane’s Liverpool for the English title Ben Cherifi a and defender Yas- when the north Africans stormed last season, grabbing a pivotal goal on sine Meriah. off to protest a disputed Nigerian the fi nal day of the campaign. Liverpool It was his fi fth goal at the tour- equaliser. Nigeria were awarded standout Mane, however, is attempting to nament and pu5s him two ahead a 2-0 victory in Ghana and have fulfi l his “wildest dream” as one of just a of closest rivals , now won six other playoff s, in- handful of Africans to win both the UEFA Adam Ounas, Cedric Bakambu cluding three in a row between Champions League and Cup of Nations. and Sadio Mane, who have three 2002 and 2006. For the marquee name in a Senegalese side ranked top of the continent, and a surprising 46 places above Algeria, the ride to the fi nal for Mane and the Teranga Lions has encountered its share of road- bumps. Two missed Mane spot-kicks, a group stage loss to Algeria, and the loss of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy to a bro- ken fi nger have tested Senegal’s resolve in their quest for the Holy Grail of African football. Coach Aliou Cisse is on a mission for personal redemption. He was the skipper of the side beaten on penalties in the 2002 fi nal, with his missed kick handing the ti- tle to Cameroon. “Having lost that fi nal, I still have it on my mind,” said former Paris Saint-Germain and Birmingham City midfi elder Cisse. “What motivated me to become a Nigeria’s forward Odion Ighalo (second right) dribbles past Tunisia’s coach was to be able to take Senegal to the defender Nassim Hnid during the Africa Cup of Nations third place fi nal. My players told me they would do play-off match in Cairo on Wednesday night. (AFP) better than my generation.” A maiden Cup of Nations for his coun- try is a prize for which Mane readily ad- recover the ball,” opined experienced in- BOTTOMLINE mitted he would trade in last month’s ternational coach Claude Le Roy. “Per- Champions League title. “I’m ready to haps it is the infl uence of Mahrez.” even swap a Champions League for a Cup The Algeria captain has been in fi ne of Nations. Going to with the tro- form for his country here, brimming with Nigeria captain Obi phy would be extraordinary. It would be confi dence after helping City to the do- my wildest dream,” Mane said ahead of mestic treble. the competition. “We are very happy to be in the fi nal Mikel retires Standing in the way, however, is an of the Africa Cup of Nations because it is Algerian outfi t that has undergone a re- something very special,” said Mahrez. AFP for the Super Eagles during markable transformation since the ar- “It was our goal to do it for the people Abuja which he won a winners’ medal rival of as coach a year and for our families. We know they are at the 2013 Africa Cup in South ago. The Desert Foxes failed miserably behind us all the way. It’s my dream to Africa. He also led Nigeria to win in World Cup qualifying, but the steely win the Cup of Nations. It’s going to be igeria captain John Obi a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Belmadi has healed divisions in the squad another battle against Senegal,” he add- Mikel yesterday called Olympics in Brazil as one of the to lead them to the brink of a fi rst Cup of ed. “We’ve been very good in this com- time on his interna- over-aged players. He was absent Nations triumph since 1990. petition. The (Nigeria) match has given tional football career in the qualifying tournament for “To the Algerian people, I want to say us more confi dence for the fi nal and we’re Nafter helping the Super Eagles this year’s Africa Cup in Egypt I’m not a politician, not a miracle worker capable of winning it.” to third place at the Africa Cup soon after the 2018 World Cup, or a wizard, but that we will fi ght like we Their hopes will boosted by the ab- of Nations. “At the age of 32 it’s but returned for the tournament have fought to this point,” Belmadi said sence of Senegal’s defensive rock Kalidou time for me to retire from the na- proper, where he featured in two after the semi-fi nal win over Nigeria. Al- Koulibaly, whose yellow card in the semi- tional team and let the youth take matches before he was sidelined geria are the leading scorers in Egypt with fi nal victory over Tunisia cruelly ruled over, who’ve done an amazing by a knee injury. 12 goals, including Mahrez’s spectacular the Napoli star out of the fi nal. “It hurts job securing a bronze medal at He signed for Turkish club last-gasp free-kick against Nigeria, and to not be able to play. But I will be beside AFCON 2019,” the former Chel- Trabzonspor as a free agent after haven’t trailed at all in the tournament. my brothers to write history,” tweeted sea midfi elder announced. he failed to win promotion to the “Algeria are so well organised, so com- Koulibaly, the cornerstone of a defence Senegal’s forward Sadio Mane attends a training session in Cairo yesterday, on the Mikel won 89 caps and scored Premier League with Middles- pact, so ‘Guardiolaesque’ in the way they breached just once so far. eve of the Africa Cup of Nations final against Algeria. (AFP) six goals between 2005 and 2019 brough during the past season.